The First RS Four-Door Compact

The A3 series includes the hatchback model, the " RS3 Sportback". However, the RS3 Sedan is not merely a four-door version of that; it is characterized by a comprehensive update, including its interior and exterior.

The most noteworthy is likely the new 2.5-liter TFSI engine. The maximum output of this new engine, claimed to be the most powerful inline five-cylinder engine in production, is 400 ps, an increase of 33 ps over the previous model. Furthermore, the maximum torque has been enhanced to 480 Nm, generating flat torque across a wide range from 1,700 to 5,850 rpm.

Its performance includes a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 4.1 seconds, and while the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, users can opt to increase it to 280 km/h. The use of a light alloy for the engine's crankcase also achieves a 26 kg weight reduction compared to the previous engine. The transmission is a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch, allowing for sporty driving with agile gear changes.

The chassis, equipped with Audi's full-time AWD system, quattro, features dedicated settings including the control systems, and the ride height is lowered by 25 mm compared to the normal setting. The braking system has also been enhanced, with the front brakes featuring 370 mm large-diameter discs and 8-piston calipers. These front discs can also be optioned with carbon-ceramic material. The wheel and tire combination is 19-inch wheels with 235/35R19 tires as standard.

Exterior and Interior Also Feature RS Exclusives

The RS-exclusive exterior design, hinting at its high potential, features a three-dimensional honeycomb pattern Singleframe grille on the front fascia. Below the grille, the "quattro" logo, also found on RS performance models, shines. Furthermore, the sharp design of the LED headlights and the dedicated front aero bumper clearly differentiate it from the base A3 Sedan model.

The track has also been widened by 20 mm at the front and 14 mm at the rear, and the flared front fenders contribute to its powerful stance. While the rear lights are more subdued compared to the front, the presence of the exhaust system with its oval tailpipes asserts its exceptional nature.

The interior is finished to be both sporty and elegantly refined, with a predominantly dark color scheme. Red accents are incorporated into the stitching, lines, and trim. The standard sports seats are upholstered in Nappa leather and feature diamond stitching on the surface. Optional RS sport seats with integrated headrests are also available.

Additionally, the driver information system located in the center of the dual-gauge instrument cluster includes a boost gauge, oil pressure gauge, and lap timer. With the optional Audi Virtual Cockpit, RS-exclusive instrument display designs become available.

The RS3 Sedan, the first compact four-door model in the RS series. As a member of the popular A3 series in Japan, we eagerly anticipate its swift arrival.